4 silver linings from the Vikings loss to the Bucs in Week 1

Silver Lining No. 1

Minnesota's rookies looked good

What a difference a year makes. The Vikings got next to nothing from their 2022 NFL Draft class last year, but this 2023 class looks like the impact will be felt immediately. There were rookies on both sides of the ball who looked extremely good and saw plenty of snaps.

Offensively, first-round pick Jordan Addison was the standout. He had the beautiful 39-yard touchdown where he showed off his speed by splitting the defenders for an easy score. Addison finished the day with four receptions for 61 yards.

If he continues this pace, he'll be the team's No. 2 wide receiver very soon and will be in the Offensive Rookie of the Year conversation.

On defense, two rookies really stood out. First was cornerback Mekhi Blackmon. Blackmon saw 15 snaps on defense, mostly playing in the nickel. He didn't back down to Mike Evans and was able to maintain his technique and hold his own for the most part. He was also aggressive in coming up and supporting the run and registered a tackle on the day.

Ivan Pace Jr. saw a lot of work in the middle. He was all over the place, firing into the backfield and going sideline to sideline to pursue ball carriers. He graded out well and ended up with eight tackles on the day.

The Vikings rookies got off to a strong start, and the game didn't look too big for any of them, and that is definitely a positive.